Princes enlisted to boost public support for Games

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry will promote UK athletes in the run-up to and during the London 2012 Games as official ambassadors, St James’s Palace has announced.

William, Kate and Harry said they were “honoured” to become ambassadors for Team GB and ParalympicsGB, and will play an active role encouraging the public to support the sportsmen and women.

It is likely the trio will visit the teams before the Olympics next July and the Paralympics a month later. They may also have some involvement in the global competitions.

They began their ambassadorial role with a message of support for the Team GB Ambition Programme, which offers aspiring athletes and coaches a first-hand understanding of the Olympic environment during the Games.

William said: “The athletes and coaches taking part in the Team GB Ambition Programme are part of that future success – potential medal-winners and sources of inspiration to come.”